Samuel Marks Fegtly Civil War Diary

FEGTLY, BATES, BELL, BUTLER, CHAMBERS, COLE, CURTIS, DOUGLAS, ELLSWORTH, EVANS, INGALLS, JACKSON, LAUMAN, LYON, MERRITT, PORTER, RODERICK, SIGEL, SMITH, STONE, WISE, WRIGHT

Posted By: Fred Rucker (email)
Date: 12/30/2012 at 19:06:29

Civil War Diary
of
Samuel Marks Fegtly
1st Regiment Iowa Infantry
Apr 1861 – Aug 1861

Samuel Marks Fegtly (Fegtley on the roster) was a twenty-year-old college student at Iowa Wesleyan University in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa when he answered Lincoln’s call for volunteers. He enlisted with the 1st Iowa Infantry for 90 days. Upon completing his tour, he returned to school and graduated in 1862. Shortly after graduation, he re-enlisted in the 102nd Ohio Infantry for the duration of the War. During school, and after the war, he lived with his brother’s family, John/Martha Fegtly in Utica, Van Buren County, Iowa. During his second enlistment, he was hospitalized for respiratory problems and severe diarrhea, a condition that plagued him for the remainder of his short life. He died at age twenty-six, and was buried in1867 in Bentonsport Cemetery, Van Buren County, Iowa.

He kept a journal of his 90-day enlistment in a pocket-sized notebook. I have transcribed his diary as written, without corrections, but have separated the running dialog into paragraphs. My notes are in (parenthesis). He is my 2nd great grand-uncle. Fred Rucker: fredrucker@gmail.com

The 1st regiment Iowa Infantry mustered in May 14, 1861 at Keokuk Iowa for a 90-day enlistment. Left Iowa for Missouri 13 June. Moved to Macon City, Renick and Booneville 15-21 June. Advanced on Springfield June-July. To Forsyth 20-25 July. Action at Forsyth 22 July. Dug Springs 2 August. Battle of Wilson’s Creek 10 August. Retreated to Springfield, and Rolla. Mustered out August 20, 1861 in St. Louis.

The Regiment lost: 1 Officer; 19 Enlisted mortally wounded; 8 Enlisted by disease. Total 28.

Guy E. Logan’s Historical Sketch First Regiment Iowa Volunteer Infantry can be found @ http://iagenweb.org/civilwar/books/logan/mil301.htm . For an in depth account, see E.F. Ware’s The Lyon Campaign in Missouri: being a history of The First Iowa Infantry...with a birdseye view of the conditions in Iowa prededing the great Civil War of 1861. Crane & Company, 1907. Reprinted by The Camp Pope Bookshop, Iowa City, c1991.

In short, General Lyon was in pursuit of Claiborne Jackson and his Missouri State Guard troops. This chase finally ended with the Battle of Wilson’s Creek near Springfield, Missouri. A summary of the Battle of Wilson’s Creek can be found at the National Park Service website @ http://www.nps.gov/history/hps/abpp/battles/mo004.htm .

Samuel Marks Fegtly (Samuel M. Fegtley as listed on the roster)
Keokuk Iowa
May 25 1861

Est dulce et decorum pro patria

Notes taken while enlisted in army, for the term of three months. Company F. 1st Regiment 2nd Battallion Iowa Volunteers. Captain S.M. Wise (Samuel M. Wise of Mt. Pleasant) 1st Lieutenant G.A. Stone (George A. Stone of Mt. Pleasant) 2nd Lieutenant S. Roderick (Simeon F. Roderick of Mt. Pleasant).

Under the call of Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, for the services of seventy five thousand men to aid in puting down rebellion against the government, I presented myself, and was recieved into a company of Iowa Volunteers, which was being raised in Mt. Pleasant Iowa. This was on the 16th of April, 1861. On the 25th of April 1861, this company was sworn into state service by Major Lauman (Jacob Gartner Lauman) of Burlington. During this time nothing of special occurance happened. Our daily drills occupied the most of our attention. We drilled in the fornoon at 9 oclock, and in the afternoon at 3. So young friends, who had long enjoyed the happy associations of our companionship, we could not without some feelings of regret look forward to the time when we could be compeled to take the parting hand, though fully impressed with the idea that there had been a great trust committed to us by our ancestors, our fathers, and the heroes of the revolution; that prosterity would hold us accountable for our acts and though deeply convicted of the justice of our cause.

On Friday Evening April 19th those of us who had a mingled together in the classic halls of the Iowa Wesleyan University at the invitation of the Ladies of the College, assembled together with the Students of the University, in the Society hall of the Ladies to spend the evening together in social conversation which for a night we know might be the last time we all would be permitted to assemble together. The evening passed of verry pleasantly, all endeavoring to make each other happy, to arouse new hopes, and inspire greater courage. Blessings on the Ladies of the University, who are to us the ever blooming, ever fragrant flowers, that bedeck the grassy spot of the college in the far distant west. The Prairie flowers of the west, long may they bloom, and may they never wither before a chilling blast, or droop unsheltered beneath the scorching burning rays of a tropical sun.

On Monday May 6th our captain recieved the intelligence that we should proceed to our place of rendezvous, which had been appointed at Koekuk. On Tuesday May 7th, at 1 P. M. we took our departure from the city of Mt Pleasant, amid a large concourse of people who had assembled at the Depot to give us a parting farewell.

The trip to Burlington was one of interest; as we rode in open cars, and had a fine chance for viewing the country, and witnessing demonstrations that were made at every hamlet, town or village. We were welcomed with cheers, and other demonstrations of gratitude and patriotism by the traveler or teamster on the road, by the sturdy farmer in the field, by the teacher in the schoolroom, by the busy housewives, by the blushing maiden, and by the playful children, just taught to honor ther nation’s flag, and to sing ther Country’s songs.

We arrived in Burlington at about 3 P.M. and were recieved by the citizens with honor, and escorted by the Burlington Blues (a local militia group) through the principal streets to our place of lodgement at the Lawrence house, there to await the boat to carry us to Koekuk. (The Lawrence House, located at 459 High Street, is part of the Burlington Historical Society complex and is open to the public. It was the home of Captain James Lawrence, a naval war hero from the War of 1812.) Burlington was alive with enthusiasm, and the stars and stripes were floting proudly at evry street. Two companies had been accepted from that city, which had left the day before, and if necessary she could furnish as many more. We spent the time there pleasantly, in rambling, about the town, and rowing upon the river, until 6 P.M. the next evening (5/8), when we embarked upon the steamer Ewing (Steamship Wm. L. Ewing, sidewheel wooden hull packet) for Koekuk. There were two other companies on board; one from Iowa City; the other from Cedar Rapids. Our company was escorted to the boat by the Burlington brass band, and amid the cheers of the assembled multitude on the shore, reechoed back by the throng on the boats we floated gaily down the river. It was a source of regret to us that we could not make the trip down the river during the day, since the true scenery could only then be seen in its full beauty. As it was we had to content ourselves by rambling about the boat, or standing upon the guard to gaze upon the dimlylined shore. My feelings were solem, as seated in the stern of the boat, I listened to the splashings of the wheels, and the gargling of the waves, until for receeded they again settled down, and the broad bosom of the mighty river became placid and mufled, save by the dimpling waves moved by the tiny breeze. There truely was the Father of Waters, over which in former days the bark canoe of the Indian had glided in the freedomof an unbroken wilderness, long the pride of the United States, now blockaded by an intestine foe, and soon perhaps to become reddened by the blood of the nation.

It was 1 oclock at night (5/9) when we arrived at Koekuk. After having disembarked we were taken to the Demming House, (the Deming House was a hotel) supplied with blankets, and then led to our quarters, which was a room in the third story of a brick building. On the floor straw was spread on which we slept sweetly and profoundly.

Thursday and Friday, May 9th & 10th we rested preparatory to our engaging in our drills. Up to this time we had been furnished with boots, hats, pants, shirts, blouses, canteens, and blankets. What we lacked was suitable food. There was enough of it, but badly, and in a verry dirty manner prepared. Our stomaches could not relish such mess as was set before us, and accordingly many of the company began to show signs of illness. A complaint was made to the captain and we were taken to a more suitable place, where we will stay until time to camp.

On Saturday May 11th we elected our field officers. The election resulted in the choice of Mr. Bates (John F. Bates) of Dubuque for Colonel, of Mr. Merrit (William H. Merritt of Cedar Rapids) for Lien. Col., of Mr. Porter (Asbury B. Porter) of Mt. Pleasant for Major. Sunday (5/12) was a rainy dismal day. Attended church in the evening.

Monday May 13th were inspected by Lieut. Chambers (Alexander Chambers). Company also reduced from 107 to 98 as this was largest number alloted to each company.

Tuesday (5/14) we were sworn into United States services. The oath was verry binding, yet all were ready to obey to the verry letter of the law. Rumored to day that we will not get to leave Koekuk verry discouraging to the company.

Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday May 15th 16th 17th 18th. Rumors conflicting cannot where we will be sent. Spent from 4 to 6 hours a day in drilling.

Sunday (5/19) at church in the forenoon, and at night. Heard the Rev Frank Evans of Muscatine preach. (A Methodist minister of Monroe and Muscatine Counties in Southeastern Iowa) Verry interesting. Our Muskets, Cartridges, and tents have arrived. Much dissatisfaction is expressed concerning our arms. They are the regular Harpers Ferry Muskets, not fit in these modern days to meet the Minni or Sharps rifles on the field of combat. (Reference to the old smooth-bore musket and ball, versus the new minnie ball, a conical-cylindrical soft lead bullet which molded to the rifling and produced more accurate and lethal results.)

Monday May 20th the weather is verry inclement; do not drill. Thursday 23rd nothing of interest has transpired, sofar this week; our guns are distributed. Several companies of the Second Reg. have arrived.

Friday May 24th was a day that will long be remembered by the 1st Regiment of Iowa Volunteers, and in after years when gray hair shall fall in snow white ringlets over the furrowed temple of time-worn veterans, that day, with its varied scenes, will arouse the fondest recollections. The several companies were invited by the Ladies of Koekuk to attend an entertainment given in the grove. We all of course attended, and such a sight as was there presented does not often greet the eyes of Soldier. There were barrels of Lemon ade. Mountains of cakes, and Pies, and an innumerable quantity of other good things, to numerous to mention. We ate, we drank, we talked, we laughed, we cheered and sang, and it seemed as if could have whiped the united south if they had only been there. A band was present to play soul inspiring strains. Toasts were read, and speeches made by the Colonel of the Reg. Colonel Curtis (Samuel Ryan Curtis was elected Colonel of the 2nd Iowa Infantry), Judge Wright (Judge George Grover Wright of Keosauqua was known as an eloquent speaker and charming after-dinner speaker), and others. It is estimated that there were 5,000 people present. We retired to our quarters with higher views of the people of Koekuk, and with renewed courage, and with fuler determinations to fight for the interests of our country. The Ladies the Soldiers friends, what would the world be without them, and how cheerles would this life be without their charms and beauties. O woman created a little later than man, but not the less an ornament of the world.

Saturday (5/25) we practiced the manual of arms. Some from the company were selected to put up tents. In the evening I with several others volunteered to guard them that night as it the guard night for our company. O how pleasant it was, to walk about that night while the moon was sending forth her rays, with though that we were acting for our country. Thoughts of home, of Parents, of the friends we had left behind behind us flitted through the mind with pleasing recollections.

Sunday (5/26) by invitation our company attended church at Chatam Square (Chatham Square Church Koekuk) and heard a glorious sermon from the lips of Rev. P.P. Ingals (Ingalls…a Methodist minister whose oratory and persuasive power made him a dominate force in Southeastern Iowa). There were the glowing sentiments of the christian and Patriot. We felt inspired with renewed courage to retrieve the nations wrongs, and to raise her drooping standard, at the cost if necessary of our lives. “Est dulce et de corum mori pro patria.” It is sweet and glorious to die for ones country. Rather would I die beneath the star spangled banner, than live under the Palmetto Flag (South Carolina had raised the Palmetto flag over Fort Sumter which confirmed the start of the civil War).

Monday May 27th. We went through our accustomed drill. News of General Butlers victory in Virginia was received with mutch enthusiasm. (General Benjamin F. Butler and his Massachusetts militia were one of the first to reach Washington at the beginning of the War. In May, he restored order in Baltimore, and was given the command of Fort Monroe). The news however of Colonel Ellsworth assassination fills us with sorrow. (Colonel Elmer E. Ellsworth was the first officer killed in the War and became a symbol of Union patriotism)

The blood of the bravest has already flowed, rouse ye for the fight! Rumor of our regiment soon being sent to Missouria. Fly ye moments fly, may we soon meet on the field of contest, to show to traitors that are also stout hearts, and loyal blood in the men of the great North-West. At about 8 oclock at night the 1st Lieutenant Stone brought an extra containing the news of Gen Butler’s victory, of the acts of the Iowa legislature in writing a loan, for the equipment of troops, and for furnishing the first Reg. with a unit. Also The information was given that on the morrow we would proceed to camp. At this the wildest enthusiasm prevailed. Cheers were given for Gen. Butler, for the Iowa Legislature, for the prospect of getting into camp, and for our Lieutenant. We all cheered long, heartily, and lustily and then laid down to sleep, with feelings of joy and gladness.

Tuesday May 28th. We removed to our camp. The ground on which our tents were erected, was about a mile and a half from where we first quartered on a beautiful piece of roaling prairie, in the suburbs of city (Koekuk). We are mutch crowded, since seven of us were put in one tent which was about 8 by 10 feet. Besides this we had our arms, camp chest, two trunks, and other accouterments to be stored away in the tents. It has been slowly raining all day, and is verry disagreeable, especially as this is our first attempt at camping. Yet we are merry, and are glad with the thought that we are acting for the external interests of our country. We started fully concerned that we must endure hardships, and we will endure them to the end. Friends behind are praying for us, and future generations will honor us. Give us food, raiment, and arms, and under the smiles of Providence, we need nothing more.

Wednesday 29th. The sun rose in the morning clouded, and it was somewhat cool day. As the tents had not been placed right, we had to remove them today. All was hurry and confusion. We are situated in a more commodious place, but sadly deficient in food. Four to seven men for 24 hours, they have allotted us, four loves of baker’s bread, one pint of beans, one pint of coffee, one pint of sugar, a few vegetables, a little salt with some fat greasy pork, meager in supply, and poor in quality. Two men when at work, in heavy drilling could eat as much as is allotted to seven. Add to this a verry scanty supply of cooking apportions and some estimate can be formed of how we live. We thought when we enlisted we had a fertile North, rich with provissions, that would supply us with the necessaries of life. It this is the way men are to be treated, who leaving their different occupations have rushed to the defense of a falling nation, sad must be reflections upon such a country. But this we do know, more is justly due us, more is allotted to us by the government, and more we are determined to have. Let the North treat us honorably, and in the name of the country we will fight nobly. Give us enough to sustain life, and our lives are a ready sacrifice. We to day passed though our usual drills, and I am glad to say we are improving fast.

Thursday 30th has been a verry nice day. Clear, moderately warm, and verry agreeable. Provisions to day still the same. Mutch discontent prevails. The prevailing sentiment is, if they want us for service, let them feed us, if not, let us be honorably disbanded. We can return to the occupations we left, and spend the time more profitably. No evidence to day of our ever being brought into service. Rumored that we will be disbanded

Friday 31st was verry warm. The news of the imediate attack upon Memphis, raise mutch enthusiasm among the soldiers. It is thought that we will be sent to Cario before long. (Cairo IL was of strategic importance as that is where the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers converge)

Saturday June 1st was exceedingly warm in the forenoon, but a rain in the afternoon prevented our drilling. No further news of the attack upon Memphis. New hopes are aroused only to be soon abated, and we have sunk back to our former standard.

Sunday 2nd passed away verry slowly. So mutch confusion banished all the sacredness of the Sabbath, and to those of us unused to such a way of living, the appearance was strange and unholy. At four we attended divine service in the camp. At six the regiment came out in dress parade.

Monday we passed through are usual drills. Nothing of special occurence has yet transpired. As to what will yet transpire we have no deffinite idea. Every thing is silent, no evidence of our ever being brought into active service. There seems to be a gloom of despondency hanging over each one.

Tuesday June 4th we passed through our first regimental drill. We marched to the city (Koekuk) and paraded through the principle street escorted by the 2nd Regiment. Flags were flying at half mast, and draped in crape, as a token of sorrow for the death of Senator Douglas. (Stephen A. Douglas died June 3, 1861) I was much rejoiced to day at recieving a visit from my Brother (John Wesley Fegtly of Utica, Van BurenCounty, Iowa) whom I had left in ill health when I started for the war, but now greatly improved. Friends also arrived from Mt. Pleasant bring us provisions, and the flag for the company. We are greatly revived, and our hopes for the future are brightening. We by another token of friendship are bound still more closely to the citizens of Mt. Pleasant, to our fellow students of the university (Iowa Wesleyan University), and to the ladies of that city who have so kindly remembered us.

Wednesday (6/5) at 2 PM the flag was presented to the company, and verry appropriate speeches were made upon the occasion. It was a splendid flag, of an excellent quality of silk, and mounted upon the staff by a beautiful Eagle. Upon it was written in gilt letters the name of the company, the “Mount Pleasant Greys”.

Friday 7th we recieved our cartridges boxes, and cartridges, bayonet scabbard and cap box. We with our regimental suit, which will soon be here, will soon be fully equiped for the war.

Saturday (6/8) passed away interest. News of to day seemed to justify the rumor that we will be disbanded soon, unless we take the oath for three year’s service.

Sunday (6/9) I was one of the guards for that day. The day passed away verry noisily, with no appearance of the holy sabbath. My thoughts were not of such a character as I usualy had when seated in the holy sanctuary. My thoughts were those of war, battle and carnage.

Monday (6/10) I passed at my leasure, as I was not compeled to drill, from my standing on guard the previous day.

Tuesday 11th was a memorable day for the City of Koekuk. It was the day on which we did honor to the memory of Stephen A Douglas. The three regiments marched in order, accompanied, by a large concourse of people of all ages, and denominations. Free-Masons. Odd-Fellows. Good-Templars. We all joined in the procession. With guns reversed, we marched to slow music to the grove, where an appropriate address was delivered. The last acts of that great Senator have stamped his image in the hearts of the America people. Emerging from political strife, he threw aside the partisan, and took on the form of a patriot. He rushed to rescue of the totering republic and with his mighty hand, he laid hold of the pillars of the Union. With such a man for support, we felt safe, and no wonder the American people mourn his death.

Thursday 13th we are aroused from our slumber by a loud yelling from the soldiers in the City. Furthur intelligence revealed the fact that the 1st & 2nd regiments were ordered south. Unrestrained enthusiasm pervails. We leave at 12. The 1st regiment has already left. Being detained we did not leave Koekuk until 6 P.M. A numerous throng were crowded on the levy to witness our departure. Though we were glad that the time had come when we would be called from our inactivity to meet the intestine foe, yet we could not restrain some feelings of regret that we were leaving the generous Citizens of Koekuk from whom we had recieved many acts of kindness. After the whole regiment had got on board, we were verry much crowded and owing to the large number we were compeled to stay on deck. The boat however moved down stream with much swiftness and at about 12 at night we arrived at Hannibal Missouria (Hannibal citizens favored the Confederate cause). There was the commencement of the Hannibal and St Joseph Rail-road, to guard which was our duty for the present. The road is owned by true union men, against whom there is mutch antipathy. We all crowded into a warehouse, and stretching ourselves upon the floor we slept soundly until morning.

(Friday 14th) At six in the morning a company of the second regiment came in with three prisoners, one of them a spy. At 11 A.M. part of our regiment started for a town out the road. At about 8 P.M. we arived at Macon City distanced from Hannibal 71 miles. On our way we cut down one secession pole, and examined the towns generaly. The most of the people were, or pretended to be unionists. The presence of soldiers however has a good deal to do, in moulding public opinion, for if there ever had been many secessionist along here, they either kept verry quiet, or were hid or gone. We encamped at this town and remained there until Tuesday morning.

June 18th During this time nothing of special occurrence happened, except taking some prisoners and compeling them to take the oath of allegance, raising some union flags, and examining into the character of things generaly. On Tuesday (June 18th) morning at 6 oclock we left Macon City on the North Missouria Rail-road, our intended destination being Boonville on the Missouria River. Along this line the people all seemed to be unionists with a few exceptions. Whether they were true or not we cannot tell. Sometimes as we approached the stations a few horsemen might be seen galloping off, in an opposite direction, no doubt fearing that they might be arrested. No one could be found that would boldly assert secession sentiments. What few there were of suspicious characters, would flee the face of a true patriot. As we approached Renick Station (Renick midway between Macon and Columbia) a fact occured worthy of notice. A party of horsemen numbering perhaps forty of fifty were training near the depot. When they became aware of the approach of the train, consternation seized them all, and even before we were fairly in sight they broke and ran in all directions. Standing upon the top of the cars, we could see them galloping off pell-mell, with no direction or in no order evidently thinking that their lasts moments had come. When we stoped at the station, a search was instituted, and a large secession flag with various other articles was found. The horsemen when they found out that we did not intend to hurt them any, came lingering around, staring and looking in wild amazement. We staid in the town over night, during which time we raised a pole, and hoisted the Stars and Stripes.

In the morning (6/19) at about seven oclock we started on foot for Boonville, where we arrived on Friday June 21st at about 10 A.M. This journey of 35 miles was verry tedious and wearisome, to us unused to traveling. Our provisions also were verry scarce, and water was hard to find. At the river we found two boats in readiness to carry us across, to where General Lyon and his men were encamped. As we were not quite certain when we might leave we staid on the boat for some time. The quarters here were verry disagreeable. Uncomfortable places for sleeping, bad water to drink, and an unhealthy stench arising from the boat. The river (Missouri) was high, as it was the time for the mountain rise, and consequently verry muddy. Mutch dissatisfaction existed concerning our food. Hard crackers, coffee, sugar, beans and poor pork, formed the principle part of our rations, and even those were far from being plenty. If there was a necessity for such living, there would be no complaining, but in country where plenty exist, and since we justly are entitled to more, it seems rather hard.

On Monday June 24th we moved upon the hill into camp. The place here was most delightful. The ground was covered with green grass, and shaded by beautiful Walnut trees. There our spirits again began to revive. A comfortable place for sleeping, and good water to drink, formed a great stimulus. In the after noon I with several of my companions took a walk up into the town. The place bore a verry pleasant appearance. Nice streets shaded by trees, and some verry nice buildings. While we were in town (Boonville) a detachment of General Lyon’s force came in. They carried with them four large field pieces of brass cannon, and withal were a hardy looking set of men. We truly were rejoiced to see that Missouria in times of peril could turn forth so many true patriots, while infested on evry border by the traitorous hand of secession.

Tuesday 25th ten of our company were detailed to aid in throwing up entrenchments. I chanced to be one of that number, and for the first time since my enlistment, it vividly appeared to me that I was acting in defence of my country. Lying around in tents, or moving from place to place, with no evident prospect of an engagement with the enemy seems like ideling away the time.

Wednesday 26th two of our company were wounded by accidental discharge of a musket. One of them was slightly wounded in the head, which will not deter him much, the other was shot through the calf of the leg, and will not be able to act any more during this campaign. In the evening we recieved our pay for the time spent in the service of the State.

Sunday June 30th A boat attempting to pass without stopping was fired into and brought to shore. She was found to be a boat loaded with furs, having been on a tour in the headwaters of the Missouria.

Monday July 1st we had regimental parade through the town (Boonville), and afterwards a company drill. Our company recieved marked attention for its proficiency in its drills.

Tuesday (7/2) we had a company drill in the grove of the encampment.

Wednesday (7/3) camp was broken up, and the march southward was commenced. That day we marched about 14 miles and encamped for the evening. Some seven or eight men gave out during the day.

Thursday the 4th the glorious 4th we celebrated by a warm hard and fatiguing march. A verry large number of men gave out during the day. The Iowa boys however seemed to stand it better than any, as there were fewer of our men run down, than in any other regiment. Though we did not have as large a dinner as we were accustomed to have in our northern homes when that glorious day rolled around, yet we were comforted by the thought that we were accomplishing more for the good of the country, than we generaly did by celebrating it by picnics, eloquent speeches, and large and elegant dinners. The people here seemed unusely quiet as no demonistrations were visable. Perhaps they had neglected its great north, and were looking forward to the time when they might celebrate the day, in which a traitorous hand broke the seal of the Declaration, or hauled down the flag which had been declared the emblem of the nations liberty.

Friday (7/5) we marched through the rain, and encamped about noon. In the evening I stood as one of the guards.

Saturday (7/6) we made a long march of 21 miles.

Sunday (7/7) we marched to the banks of the grand river. (The Grand River flows south from Iowa southward into the Missouri River near Brunswick) There we were joined by a large cavalry company, and a body of men with six field pieces. The river was verry high, and the ferry poor, so that we were detained here until Monday afternoon before we could cross. After crossing we encamped on the opposite bank for the night. The St Louis force with the cannon and cavalry had passed on.

On Tuesday July 9th we made a verry long march of 25 miles to the Osage R. (The Osage River flows west to east across central Missouri) Many men gave out during the day, and the teams were verry much fatigued. When we arrived here the St. Louis Regiment had not yet crossed. Our regiment encamped near the river until it could cross. In the evening I was detailed as one of the guards.

Wednesday (7/10) evening we crossed the river (Osage) and encamped on the opposite side.

Thursday morning 11th we again started on the road, and traveled until about 4 P.M. when we stopped and got our suppers. To day one of the regular soldiers was shot and the man who committed the deed was arested, and will likely be put to death. After having eaten our supper, we started, and traveled until about two o clock in the morning. The utmost exertion is now being put forth, in order to overtake Jackson the Missouria Traitor (Governor Claiborne Fox Jackson, the pro-Southern Governor of Missouri, wanted to secede and join the Confederacy). He is not more than 30 miles ahead. If caught he will suffer severely. (General Lyon was in pursuit of Claiborne Jackson and his State Guard troops. This chase finally ended with the Battle of Wilson’s Creek near Springfield)

Friday 12th we traveled about five miles to the town of Melvil (Melville was a village that no longer exists, but was located near present-day Dadeville), where we haulted and camped until the next morning. The reason for our haulting so soon, was that Jackson instead of awaiting our arival at Springfield had become much frightened, and had started for Arkansas. The disastrous battle between him and Zeigler (Col Franz Sigel) had so reduced his forces, and so had discouraged him, that he would not dare to meet a greater force. It is reported that there were over 12 thousand of secession troops killed in the battle. (In the Battle of Carthage, 5 July, Confederate losses were only 130 wounded and 40 killed).

Saturday 13th we traveled fifteen miles and encamped. In the evening I was again detailed as one of the guards. General Lyon passed on to Springfield. A man in the artillery company was to day run over by one of the pieces, and had his left arm and leg broken. The most surprising feature now is the strong union feeling that exists among the people. They are more union here than they were north of the Mo. River. The stars and stripes were floating in many places, and the people turned out in large numbers to greet us. The ladies especialy are strong for the union. May blessings attend them. As it was not necessary to pursue Jackson any farther at present, we were kept in camp here. The place of the encampment, is ten miles from Springfield, on the summit of the Ozark Mountains, which is a large chain if irregular hills. It is open prairie, but unlike Northern ones, is stony.

Sunday 14th. I stood during the day as one of the guards. In the evening (one) of the soldiers in the 1st Kansas Regiment was shot for killing one of his fellow soldiers. (Pvt. Joseph W. Cole of Co. 0 of the 1st Kansas Volunteer Infantry Regiment was the first soldier to be executed in the War. He had an argument with another soldier. Pvt. Cole pulled a knife and stabbed the man to death. Pvt. Cole was executed by Lyon’s command. By the end of the War, 267 Union soldiers had been executed.)

Monday (7/15) I took a tour cut through the country hunting black-berries. In the evening I was again detailed as one of the guards, and stood until Tuesday Evening.

Wednesday (7/17) we had a company drill at 9 A.M. and a regimental one at 4 P.M. To drill twice a day, while we remain here in camp was the standing order.

Thursday (7/18) Morning it rained, and consequently there was no drill. I with two others took a tour out through the country and got some apples, some bread, and some milk. Thursday Evening and night, and Friday morning it rained verry hard. No drill Thursday.

Saturday July 20th we we moved our place of encampment 12 miles in a southwesternly direction. We are now about 8 miles west of Springfield. Six companies of our regiment left today for Raleigh (Rolla) to obtain some provisions (Rolla was a Union supply depot during the Civil War, forwarding supplies and munitions south for the Battle of Wilson Creek in Springfield). The remainder of us expect soon to go. They will probably remain there until we arrive when we will go home together. Our time will be out in 25 days. I met with a misfortune today by losing my pocket book containing fifteen dollars. I am now dead broke. Saturday Evening it commenced raining, and continued raining intervals until Monday morning. Our place of encampment being on low ground became extremely muddy.

Tuesday (7/23) at two o clock, we moved to another place of encampment, upon a roling piece of Prairie. It is a fine place, and an extensive range of country is open to our skies. In the evening I was detailed as one of the guards. The moon shone verry bright, and the thousand gleaming lights of the encampments, presented a verry picturesque scene.

Thursday July 25th we passed through our usual drills. I today recieved a letter from E.M. Bell, formerly a fellow- student, and a class-mate in the University (Iowa Wesleyan University), now in Pikes Peak.

Friday 26th I was taken down with an attack of the billious fever (bilious fever: typhoid, malaria, hepatitis or elevated temperature and bile emesis) and during the evening and night was verry sick. This is a disease to which soldiers are verry much exposed. Greassy food, and poor rations, are not the most suitable for sustenance. The remainder of our regiment returned to camp to day after a tramp of some seventy-five miles. They had a small skirmish with the secessionists, in which they captured their provission train, and took some clothing. A few of the rebel troops were killed.

Saturday (7/27) we recieved the intelligence that Jackson’s army was advancing upon us, 60 thousand strong. The report has not since been corroberated, and in all likely hood the whole is a farce. There may perhaps be some bands scouting around.

Sunday evening July 28th our company was detailed for picket guard. I am not yet able for service. Nothing further has been heard from Jackson, except some vague rumors. The St. Louis regiment, left this evening for Greenfield some 25 miles distant.. From this we infer that the General does not expect an attack soon in this quarter, as he in all probability, would be concentrating his forces here if such were the fact. We expect to start home before long. Many of which I am one are truely tired of this way of living. If there were a necessity I would continue longer in the service, but as the country is overflowing with volunteers, I do not deem it prudent to remain longer than my first enlistment.

Monday 29th. One of the privates in Company A, of our regiment died to day. He had a billious attack and no medicine seemed to take any affect upon him. Several others are verry low, many verry many throughout the regiment are unwell. The attacks are generly all billious, resulting from the food. We have had nothing for a week back except cornmeal, fresh-beef, coffee, with a little flour, and a few crackers. Even this at times amounting to only half rations. Such food as this, men cannot eat long without being injured. Our regiment has been reported unfit for duty. Unless we recieve better food soon, we cannot endure a march, even towards home.

Tuesday July 30th was so excessively hot that we felt more like lying in the shade than doing anything else. At Sunset I attended the burial ceremonies of our deceased brother soldier. The procession was formed at the camp, and marching to slow music, we proceeded to the grave, which had been dug upon a high eminence, about ½ mile from camp. A prayer was offered, the coffin lowered, a few shots fired over his grave, when we then returned to camp leaving his body to rest in peace with nothing but two rude stones to mark last resting place. About half-past 11 o clock that night, we were aroused from our slumbers, by the cry that the enemy was advancing upon us, mingled with the commands of Officers for their companies to fall into ranks. Immediately all sprang to their feet, and though they had been soundly sleeping, in fifteen minutes we were in ranks and in twenty the regiment was formed, ready to march. It proved however to be a false alarm; we were therefore dismissed, and returned to our tents where we slept soundly until morning.

Wednesday 31st I was detailed as a guard. Nothing of special occurence happened.

Thursday (8/1) Evening at about sunset camp was torn up and a march towards the enemy was commenced. The (several words unreadable due to bloody thumb prints) a direction south of Springfield. We marched that night about seven miles, and then streching our wearied limbs upon the ground along the road side we slept soundly until morning.

Friday August 2nd was an excessive hot day, so that a heavy march was impossible. We marched as fast as the heat would allow, which at best was slow, yet several were sunstruck, some died and many gave out. At about 11 A.M. we came up with the advanced guard of the enemy, when one cannon fired, but did no injury. The brigade then advanced forward slowly, until about 2 P.M. when we haulted , and after delaying for sometime encamped in order, so that we might be ready at any time. All this time, the cavalry, artillery, and regulars, were engaged in front, in skirmishing, and fighting. Many shots were fired and several were killed, and some of the enemy were taken. That night our company was detailed as picket guard.

Saturday August the 3rd the brigade commenced advancing forward slowly. At about 11 A.M. we came upon the camp of the enemy, who without waiting immediately retreated in hot haste. Owing to a misunderstanding between the the General and our Colonel, our regiment which had been ordered out upon the right of the enemy in that direction, failed to cut of their retreat, and thus the enemy escaped. Part of our company acted as skirmishers. We passed through the camp of the enemy and found much of ther preparations for dinner. They evidently had retreated in confusion. We encamped here for the night.
Sunday Morning August 4th the brigade commenced a backward march towards Springfield. General Lyon it was reported, had recieved intelligence that the Secessionists were marching from all sides to an attack upon Springfield, and also that they had only been enticing us on until our whole army had been surrounded. The enemy which we had been pursuing, and which had constantly been retreating before us, was reported to be only a small force, leading us into a favorable place for an attack, while the main body had flanked us upon both sides. Whether these reports were true or not, or whether the General suppossed it unnecessary to pursue any further a body of flying horsemen, no one could tell, yet we all do know a slow and cautious march was commenced in a backward direction after throwing away some of our cooking utensils. It would be impossible to describe fully this march with the faithful detail of what we had to endure. The sun seemed to pour down its hottest rays, and the dust rose in a perfect fog. After marching about 5 miles we came to the spring we had the first skirmish with the enemy, and where we had encamped on the night of the 2nd. Here we haulted and laid in the shade, until about 3 P.M. when we again pushed forward, and continued marching until about 9 in the evening when we haulted at a large spring and encamped during the night. We did not get to bed verry soon as we had to yet cook our suppers. A large field of green corn and also a large patch of cabbage were thoroughly searched and stripped of their contents. Cornfields, cabbage patches, and orchards have generly to suffer pretty severely.

In the morning (8/5) we again set out, and pushed through to Springfield, which place we reached in the afternoon at about 4 P.M. Our place of encampment was a position commanding an entrance to City, in southern direction, distanced from town about one mile and a half. We staid in this position until Tuesday night (8/6), when as it was reported supposing an attack we were placed in a direction south east from the City, to guard a road entering the town in that direction. Nothing however occurred during the night.

Wednesday afternoon the August 7th our company stood as picket guard. Two men were taken prisoners on suspicion and given over to General Lyon.

Thursday (8/8) morning, there came a command for us to prepare for an attack. The wagons were immediately sent off, and the regiment drawn up in order. The report however proved untrue. In the evening just as we were going to lay down upon our blankets an order came for us draw 24 hours rations, and prepare for a march upon the enemy. This order was also reversed and we were permitted to sleep soundly by all night. Everything seems uncertain, and all we have to do is to wait for the issue. The country has been scouted in all directions, and so far no enemy can be found. Of course reports are plenty, and if true we certainly would be in a perilous condition. My opinion is that there is no enemy that need be much dreaded near, and as long as the Federal troops stay here encamped as we are all around the City, the town certainly is in no danger.

Friday (8/9) Evening at about Six o clock, the Regiment was drawn up in order preparatory to a march upon the enemy. General Lyon with great earnestness exhorted to stand firm, and fight valiantly for one country’s cause. From the manner of the General all could easily percieve that we were approaching a dangerous enemy. We poor privates had not known anything, and consequently were ignorant that we were approaching an enemy, five times greater in number than our little force of about four thousand and eight hundred (5,400 Union vs 12,000 Confederates).

We marched until about 2 A.M. ( Sat 8/10) when we haulted near the enemies pickets, and slept until sunrise, when marching forward the pickets were drove in, and the battle soon commenced. The battle lasted six hours, when the enemy fell back, and our force now too weak to continue any longer, with such a large number, besides the General being killed, (Nathaniel Lyon was the first Union General to die in battle during the Civil War. His death made him a hero in the North) and many other officers being killed and wounded, made a hasty retreat to Springfield. Thus ended the famous battle of Springfield. Our cannon was all that saved us.

(The Battle of Springfield is better known as The Battle of Wilson’s Creek, or The Battle of Oak Hills by the Confederates. It was the 1st major engagement of the Civil War west of the Mississippi River, and was the second major victory for the Confederate Army. It gave the Confederates control of sourthwestern Missouri. This victory was an impetus that motivated Governor Jackson to call a special legislative session and push the pro~Confederate politicians to pass an Ordinance of Secession. Missouri became the 12th Confederate state.)
At 2 A.M. Sunday morning August 11th we left Springfield for Rolla leaving our sick and wounded, in good hands, and trusting to the mercy of the enemy, Many of citizens followed us, and nearly all the home guards. After a tedious march of six days we reached Rolla, where we were met by the cars, and conveyed to St. Louis, which city we reached at about sunset, Saturday Evening August 17th. At Rolla we recieved our new uniforms, and delivered up our arms. (Rolla was an important site as the railroad terminated there, making it a key transfer point for Union supplies.) The soldiers now look more decent having laid aside their rags, and became attired in a new suit. Our time of service had already expired, as it only extended to August 14th.

In St Louis we were compeled to remain until Friday August 23rd as we could not get our money until that time. We therefore were left to amuse ourselves by running about the City. It is needless to say the time was well employed. Wednesday (8/21) our company was sworn out of service. Friday morning (8/23) we recieved our pay, and Friday afternoon we embarked on board the steamer Sucker-State (Steamship Sucker-State, sidewheel wooden hull packet), for Koekuk Iowa, at which place we arrived Saturday evening August the 24th. We staid during the night on the boat, and in the morning at 7 o clock, the company started for Burlington. I remained in Koekuk over Sabbath (8/25) with my esteemed friend Edward Smith, and Monday morning (8/26) at 7 o clock took passage on the Koekuk Demoine and Minneastota R.R. for Bentonsport. I arrived here at about 9 A.M. where fortune favoring I found my brother’s team and in the afternoon I found myself safe at my Brother’s house (John Weseley Fegtly of Utica, Van Buren County, Iowa) after an absence of four months.

Notes taken while enlisted in army, for the term of three months. Company F. 1st Regiment 2nd Battallion Iowa Volunteers. Captain S.M. Wise 1st Lieutenant. S.A. Stone 2nd Lieutenant. S. Roderick.

(The remaining 20 pages of this diary consist of a running list of school expenses at Iowa Wesleyan University during the year 1862.)

Fred Rucker Copyright 2012